Time Lens offers new museum journey for families

A new free museum-developed app allows families to meet Phar Lap in America, speak to Thomas Edison and find out what terrifies the giant squid on an interactive and educational treasure hunt through Melbourne Museum.

The Time Lens app takes would-be treasure hunters on a journey across the museum, bringing objects to life from every nook and cranny. App users interact with the Curator, a curious character on a quest to learn as much as possible about the world around her.

Project Manager Jonathan Shearer anticipates the app will encourage moments of discussion within families. "We're hoping to promote conversation between kids, parents and grandparents about significant museum objects and stories. The app is an engaging way for visitors to explore the museum and discover information that may otherwise go unnoticed."

Focusing on the notion of family-based learning, the Time Lens has been developed to reflect State and Federal curriculum for children up to eight years old. "As an informal place of learning, Melbourne Museum presents a fabulous opportunity to emphasise the importance of the education children get every day within families," Shearer said.

Children participating in the Time Lens treasure hunt can earn badges, becoming a "Science Sleuth", a "Tech Time Traveller", a "Forest Frolicker", or even the highest rank, a "Museum Master".

Funded by Telematics Trust, Time Lens will be launched in late June. It will be available for download to Android smartphones, iPhone and iPad for use on-site at Melbourne Museum.